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what’s a word for ‘dilemma‘ except between two desirable things?

English Language & Usage Asked by iflopushya on March 4, 2021

a single word that fits best with the definition of internal indecisiveness between two very desirable things. Kind of like the word ‘friction’ but even that doesn’t sound quite right.

An example would be “his constant word like friction between going to Paris or London”

5 Answers

I think quandary works quite well here.

Quandary
Cambridge Dictionary

a state of not being able to decide what to do about a situation in which you are involved:

Answered by Andy Ford on March 4, 2021

Try

swither = to be uncertain about what to do or choose

Cambridge Dictionary

Hence: "his constant swithering between London or Paris"

Merriam Webster states the word to be mainly British dialect. That is consistent with the use I have heard this last 70 years. Google ngram supports MW in showing ten times the British usage compared to the American.

Answered by Anton on March 4, 2021

A choice between two equally good options is called the dilemma of

Buridan's ass.

So it is still referred to as a dilemma, but often stated obliquely (not as a 'thing'), e.g. "You are in the same situation as Buridan's ass."

Answered by Mitch on March 4, 2021

Did you consider an adjective instead of a noun?

his constant delightful dilemma between going to Paris or London”

A little alliteration always helps too.

Answered by Fraser Orr on March 4, 2021

The indecisiveness might be covered by vacillation, though this suggests a changing or wavering mind.

Answered by Peter on March 4, 2021

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